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New funding for renewable energy in First Nations communities

The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) has announced funding for solar infrastructure in remote communities. The Regional Microgrids Program will allocate $75 million for projects in First Nations communities.

The program also incorporates ARENA’s former $50 million Regional Australia Microgrid Pilots Program (RAMPP), bringing the total of the Regional Microgrids Program funding pool to $125 million.

Electricity provision in remote First Nations communities is often dependent on diesel. The First Nations Community Microgrids Stream aims to deliver cleaner, cheaper and more reliable energy. It will empower First Nations communities to participate in their electricity supply arrangements and the development of energy infrastructure.

Projects under the First Nations Community Microgrids Stream will be developed in consultation with Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander groups, First Nations renewable energy experts and the state and territory governments.

Applications are open now, with the program to run until December 2025 or until funds are exhausted.

For more information about the Regional Microgrids Program, including eligibility and how to apply, please visit the ARENA funding page.

Read more

ARENA’s announcement of the Regional Microgrids Program

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Our department recognises the First Peoples of this nation and their ongoing connection to culture and country. We acknowledge First Nations Peoples as the Traditional Owners, Custodians and Lore Keepers of the world's oldest living culture and pay respects to their Elders past, present and emerging.

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